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Travel advice for Jordan
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Jordan
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 26.06.2020
Tucked away between parallel rocky ranges in southern Jordan, Petra is awe-inspiring. Popular but rarely crowded, this fabled site could keep you occupied for half a day or half a year: you can roam its dusty tracks and byways for miles in every direction.
Petra was the capital of the Nabateans, a tribe originally from Arabia who traded with, and were eventually taken over by, the Romans. Grand temples and even Christian-era church mosaics survive, but Petra is best known for the hundreds of ornate classical-style facades carved into its red sandstone cliffs, the grandest of which mark the tombs of the Nabatean kings.
As you approach, modern urban civilization falls away and you are enveloped by the arid desert hills; the texture and colouring of the sandstone, along with the stillness, heat and clarity of light bombard your senses. But it’s the lingering, under-the-skin quality of supernatural power that seems to seep out of the rock that leaves the greatest impression.
As in antiquity, the Siq, meaning “gorge”, is still the main entrance into Petra – and its most dramatic natural feature. The Siq path twists and turns between bizarrely eroded cliffs for over a kilometre, sometimes widening to form sunlit piazzas in the echoing heart of the mountain; in other places, the looming walls (150m high) close in to little more than a couple of metres apart, blocking out sound, warmth and even daylight.
When you think the gorge can’t go on any longer, you enter a dark, narrow defile, opening at its end onto a strip of extraordinary classical architecture. As you step out into the sunlight, the famous facade of Petra’s Treasury looms before you. Carved directly into the cliff face and standing forty metres tall, it’s no wonder this edifice starred in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade as the repository of the Holy Grail – the magnificent portico is nothing short of divine.
Petra (daily 6am–sunset) is 240km south of the Jordanian capital, Amman. Theadjacent town of Wadi Musa has restaurants and hotels. Check outpetranationaltrust.org.
Top image: Ad Deir - Monastery in the ancient city of Petra Jordan Travel Guide/ Jordan travel © Shutterstock
6 days / from1333 USD
Discover Jordan
Jordan has it all: spectacular desert scenery; the Dead Sea, age-old cities, castles, monuments, and more. Discover the best of this welcoming country as you delve into the history of ancient civilizations and see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World up close.
customize ⤍8 days / from1665 USD
Treasures of Jordan
From the Dead Sea's restorative salty shores to Red Sea reefs teeming with aquatic life, Jordan is full of treasures. Get a taste of desert life and adventure in Wadi Rum; then fill up on culture in Petra and Amman, and maybe squeeze in a trip to Jerusalem, too.
customize ⤍6 days / from1080 USD
Highlights of Jordan
Explore the highlights of Jordan in this compact itinerary. Activities include stargazing in Wadi Rum, exploring Petra and spending a day at leisure at the Dead Sea. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about history and culture and introduce the Bedouin lifestyle to you.
customize ⤍8 days / from1890 USD
An active adventure in Jordan
Experience a mix of hiking in the North of Jordan, canyon trails and relaxing activities combined with sightseeing of the highlights and meeting locals. This trip is accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and is not recommended during wintertime (November to February).
customize ⤍8 days / from1770 USD
Jordan Culture in depth
Get to know the Jordanian culture in depth, indulge in mouthwatering street and local homemade food, meet the owner of the smallest hotel in the world, learn more about the Bedouins and the desert in Wadi Rum and finish off by floating over the Dead Sea mineral water.
customize ⤍8 days / from1800 USD
Family adventure in Jordan
Indulge into the magical ancient world of Jordan on this thrilling family adventure! This tour has been specially designed to highlight the most exciting corners of Jordan, from natural reserves to historical Jerash to magnificent Petra, from Wadi Rum desert to the blissful Dead Sea.
customize ⤍8 days / from1330 USD
Follow the Foot Steps of Jesus in Jordan
Jordan is a full-option land that include marks for each religion and civilization! During this holiday you will be introduced to many Biblical places across our beloved county accompanied with our knowledgeable tour guide you will tells you a lot about fascinating history and culture of Jordan.
customize ⤍8 days / from1440 USD
Jordan Heritage Step by Step
Visit the highlights and attractions of Jordan from the North to the South to find out more about the region’s ancient history, experience the Bedouin lifestyle and meet locals. A knowledgeable tour guide will accompany you to describe the fascinating history and culture of Jordan.
customize ⤍8 days / from1590 USD
Mind, body & soul in Jordan
Jordan is known worldwide as a natural spa and you will discover why. During this holiday, you will find your “peace of mind”. Discover Jordan highlights with relaxing activities and meeting locals. Visit peaceful spots with breathtaking landscapes and practice true relaxation.
customize ⤍9 days / from7650 USD
Luxury Tour of Jordan
Embark on a remarkable journey through Jordan, exploring Petra's ancient wonders, indulging in Aqaba's Red Sea luxury, and immersing in Wadi Rum's surreal desert landscapes. Visit the sacred site of baptism in Bethany, connecting with history and spirituality.
customize ⤍5 days / from1425 USD
Classic Tour in Jordan
Journey through ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes in Jordan. Explore the iconic marvels of Petra and traverse the surreal red desert of Wadi Rum. Capture mesmerizing memories and carry the beauty of Jordan in your heart forever.
customize ⤍10 days / from3105 USD
Honeymoon in Jordan
Indulge in a blissful honeymoon in Jordan, where relaxation and adventure await. Soak in the soothing Ma'in Hot Springs, explore the captivating landscapes of Wadi Rum, and wander hand in hand through the ancient wonders of Petra.
customize ⤍6 days / from2045 USD
Jordan Highlights - from Aqaba
Uncover the magic of Aqaba's Red Sea, marvel at Petra's ancient wonders, and immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes of Wadi Rum. Jordan's captivating beauty will leave an indelible mark on your heart, creating memories that will endure a lifetime.
customize ⤍7 days / from1630 USD
Jordan for Culture Enthusiasts
Jordan is perfect for Arab culture enthusiasts! Immerse yourself in Jordanian culture and experience real Bedouin hospitality. Visit the highlights in Jordan, meet locals and learn from them and your knowledgeable guide about Jordanian customs and traditions.
customize ⤍written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 26.06.2020
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